JP5373732B2 - Flow guide - Google Patents

Abstract

A flow guide directs a fluid flow across a surface of a device, for example a lens surface of an endoscope, in a controlled manner to facilitate flow attachment to the surface. Embodiments include features that impart a non-uniform velocity profile and/or include guide surfaces for facilitating flow attachment and/or coverage.

Description

  The present invention relates to a flow guide for changing the direction of fluid flow across the surface of a device in a controlled manner. In particular, the device is an endoscope and the surface is the surface of a lens or other optical element, but is not limited thereto.

  The present invention will be described with reference to endoscopic optical elements, particularly laparoscopic optical elements, but is not limited to these devices. The present invention can also include commercial or other medical optical instruments, and other devices.

  In minimally invasive surgery (MIS), a surgeon uses an endoscope to remotely visualize and steer within a body cavity inside a patient. The endoscope functions as the surgeon's eye during surgery, and tissue manipulation or diagnostic studies are performed. One type of endoscope is a laparoscope for abdominal MIS, which includes laparoscopic general surgery including upper and lower gastrointestinal surgery, gynecology, bariatric surgery (obesity treatment surgery), urology, Used in specific areas such as thorax and lung surgery, ENT, rigid scope including neurosurgery or other surgical departments utilizing semi-rigid scope.

  Minimally invasive surgery (MIS), often referred to as “keyhole surgery” and minimal access surgery (MAS), has a smaller abdominal skin incision (or abdominal skin) compared to traditional open abdominal surgery that requires a large incision. There is no incision, in which case a bio-orifice connected to an internal incision is used (defined as a surgical procedure). In MIS, a special access port called a cannula is inserted into the skin incision and a small camera is introduced into the body through the cannula to transmit the image to a video monitor, which allows the doctor to observe and diagnose. It becomes possible to treat various diseases if necessary.

  MIS is already inseparable from daily surgical activities at surgical centers around the world. Many treatments have been achieved by this “keyhole” approach with an appropriate endoscope or by surgery with reduced laparotomy (such as mini-open or laparoscopic-assisted treatment or hand-assisted laparoscopic or single-incision laparoscopic surgery). Has been done. The skin incision is smaller than a few years ago. The development of these MIS approaches is rapidly progressing and new technologies that will help patients and society to reduce complications, patient mortality and hospitalization compared to the corresponding “old” methods. Development will continue to drive the majority of treatment to MIS.

  An endoscope used in laparoscopic examination is called a laparoscope and is composed of an elongated and typically cylindrical shaft including an optical element such as a camera, illumination equipment such as an optical fiber bundle, and other devices. During laparoscopic surgery, the target tissue is visualized using a laparoscope. In laparoscopic examination, a laparoscope is inserted through a cannula or port to access the abdominal cavity, adjacent to the patient's navel, introduced through a small incision. Typically, an inhalation device blows medical grade carbon dioxide or another suitable gas into this abdominal cavity through this port (other ports can also be used). This is done to expand or expand the abdominal cavity by raising the abdominal wall to create a surgical space or environment. A general surgical inhaler in the operating room is programmed on and off to maintain and optimize the set pressure in the patient's abdominal cavity.

  There are four main requirements for surgeons or practitioners during laparoscopic surgery. That is, continuous surgical images, maintenance of surgical control, safety and time efficiency. The laparoscopic or endoscopic lens in MIS surgery is the surgeon's “eye” and the optical system is repeatedly contaminated with peritoneum or other body fluids, blood, aerosol fat, tissue fragments, smoke, debris or condensate Everything impairs the surgeon's field of view (via an external monitor / screen). These various contaminants include electro-cautery coagulation devices, laparoscopic scissors, ultrasonic coagulation cutting devices, suction-irrigation devices and many others It is obstructed by various devices introduced into the abdominal cavity via the working port, such as Since these devices are an important part of MIS and laparoscopic surgery, they usually remain a major cause of lens contamination. As a result of this contamination, visualization through the laparoscopic optics is repeatedly reduced and impaired.

  Currently, the “gold standard” for decontamination and lens cleaning requires removing the laparoscope from the patient's abdominal cavity. The problematic contaminants are removed with a sterile cotton swab, the laparoscopic optics are subsequently washed with hot sterile saline, the excess saline is then removed with another cotton swab, and finally sterilized anionic The lens is coated with a surfactant (such as Fog Reduction Elimination Device (FRED) or ClearIt ™ antifogging solution). From the moment the visualization is reduced, the scope is removed and the surgery is immediately stopped. During this time, the patient is placed at increased risk because the surgeon can no longer see the operating area. In other words, the surgeon is blind. In addition to this, the surgical workflow is interrupted, increasing the operation time and the patient's general anesthesia time. The removal of the laparoscope for cleaning can be as many as 5-10 times per hour and the cleaning process usually takes 40-60 seconds. This increases surgical time and patient general anesthesia time by 3-10 minutes per hour. More importantly, however, the surgeon's workflow and concentration are disrupted, which compromises patient safety. The safety issues associated with removing a laparoscope for cleaning are well understood and attempts have been made in the past to solve this problem. These attempts have been unsuitable for solving the myriad problems associated with cleaning the lens in situ.

  In one aspect of the invention, a flow guide is provided for redirecting fluid flow across the surface of a device as defined in claim 1. Optional features of embodiments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims.

  In another aspect of the invention, a flow guide is provided for redirecting fluid flow across the surface of the device. The flow guide has a positioning configuration for positioning the device with respect to the flow guide such that the surface is entirely disposed in a first plane defined along a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to each other. And a flow path for directing fluid flow, having side walls spaced from each other in the first direction. The flow guide includes a rim extending in the second direction as a whole from each of the side walls. Each rim defines a rim guide surface that extends generally in a first direction and a third direction orthogonal to the second direction and forms a convex shape in a plane parallel to the first plane, so that the fluid crosses the surface of the device. The fluid flow from the flow path is diverged in the first direction.

  In another aspect of the invention, a flow guide is provided for directing fluid flow longitudinally along the device and redirecting the fluid flow across the lateral end face of the device. The flow guide positions the device relative to the flow guide such that an inner surface defining a space for receiving the device and a lateral end surface of the device generally within a cross-section secured to the flow guide. And a flow path for directing fluid flow longitudinally along the device and redirecting the fluid flow across the lateral end face of the device. The channel has an inner channel surface and an outer channel surface facing each other, and the inner channel surface is closer to the space. The inner channel surface extends through the cross section. The end of the inner channel surface merges with the inner surface at an edge located substantially within the cross section and is disposed at a first acute angle with respect to the cross section. The outer channel surface extends through the cross section and the end of the outer channel surface is disposed at a second acute angle with respect to the cross section to change the direction of fluid flow toward the cross section.

  In another aspect of the invention, a flow guide is provided for directing fluid flow longitudinally along the device and redirecting the fluid flow across the lateral end face of the device. The flow guide includes a first portion and a second portion that is manufactured as a separate component from the first portion. The device with respect to the flow guide such that the first portion and the second portion cooperate to define an interior surface that defines a space for receiving the device and a lateral end surface of the device is generally within the cross-section. And a flow path that directs fluid flow longitudinally along the device and redirects the fluid flow across the lateral end face of the device. The channel has an inner channel surface and an outer channel surface facing each other, and the inner channel surface is closer to the space. The end of the inner channel surface meets the inner surface at an edge located substantially within the cross section. The outer channel surface extends through the cross section, and the end of the outer channel surface is configured to redirect the fluid flow toward the cross section or substantially parallel to the cross section. The second part is preferably an insert inserted into the first part.

  In some embodiments, one or more of the above aspects are combined.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide is for directing fluid flow and turning to clean the end face of the device. In some embodiments, the device is an endoscope and the end surface includes the surface of an optical element (such as a lens surface). The flow guide allows any biological material or foreign matter that adheres to the lens during surgery to be removed from the lens surface. Thus, the lens can be cleaned without removing the endoscope from the patient, ensuring that the surgeon always sees the surgical site.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide comprises a rim. Each rim has a convex rim guide surface that diverts the fluid flow across the end face in a controlled manner. This allows a relatively high speed fluid flow, which is generally parallel flow, to diverge quickly when the fluid exits the flow path in the flow guide, and as a result, compared to the case where no rim is present. The rate at which the flow covers the end faces increases.

  In some embodiments, the outlet defined by the flow guide and the end face of the channel outlet is narrower in the center than at the end. This makes the fluid flow through the center of the outlet faster than the ends, thereby creating a fluid flow gradient. The low-speed fluid flow near the edge moves so slowly that it can adhere to the rim guide surface, causing the flow to diverge. The fluid flow near the center of the outlet does not need to adhere to the rim guide surface and can therefore move faster. Furthermore, the non-uniform velocity profile itself promotes flow divergence even in the embodiment without the rim as described above.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide guides flow longitudinally along the device, redirects the flow across the lateral end face of the device, and the fluid flow adheres to the end face after leaving the outlet. Configured to do. This prevents most of the fluid flow from removing any unwanted particles on the end face, rather than adhering to the end face and leaving the end face unhelpful for cleaning the flow surface. For example, surface adhesion is aided by specially shaped corner features defined by the inner channel surface of the flow guide adjacent to the end face, which helps prevent flow separation.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide is a single modified fitting for use with standard devices such as laparoscopes. The fixture has a simple structure and is therefore inexpensive to manufacture. This makes the flow guide suitable for use as a disposable fitting. If the fixture is not disposable, it must be thoroughly cleaned, cleaned from particulate contamination and re-sterilized after each surgical procedure.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide is manufactured as two separate parts, each part defining a portion of the flow guide's geometric features. For example, the flow guide may have a main part that is manufactured separately (for example, molded) and an insert that is inserted into the main part, thereby simplifying the manufacture of each part and making it to be achieved. Tolerance is improved.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide is configured such that a portion of the device or endoscope extends longitudinally beyond a recess in the flow guide that is transversely opposite the outlet. This allows the flow across the end face to more efficiently clean the end face at the edge of the end face, facilitating end face cleaning. In other words, in these embodiments, there is a gap between the depression and the plane in which the end face is placed in use. For example, the recess may extend on each side wall of the outlet or any other guide structure adjacent to the outlet (eg, the rim described above). Regardless of whether the flow guide completely or only partially surrounds the device, the recess may extend over the entire remaining perimeter of the flow guide.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide is configured to completely enclose the device along the perimeter, while in other embodiments the flow guide uses wings that extend, for example, on each sidewall of the outlet. Configured to only partially enclose the device. In either case, these embodiments hold the device securely to prevent lateral relative movement of the device, but are configured to allow sliding insertion of the device into the flow guide.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide is integrally formed with a laparoscope (or generally an endoscope). This ensures that the flow guide is permanently held in place and can be reliably used at any time during use of the device.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide has an inner surface that defines a space for receiving the device when the device is slid longitudinally. In some embodiments, the inner surface surrounds more than half of the perimeter of the device cross section and acts to secure the device to the flow guide. In some embodiments, when the device is inserted into the flow guide, the lateral end surface of the device protrudes longitudinally beyond a portion of the inner surface.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide includes a first portion and a second portion that is manufactured as a separate part from the first portion, which is preferably an insert that is inserted into the first portion. The first part and the second part jointly define a flow path. In some embodiments, the first part and the second part are molded using separate molds. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inner channel surface, edge and inner surface is defined by the insert. In some embodiments, the outer flow path surface is defined by the first portion.

  In some embodiments, the edge of the outer flow path surface is convex in a plane orthogonal to the cross section, defining an outlet that is non-uniform in height relative to the cross section. This provides a non-uniform velocity profile for the fluid that is regulated to flow between the outer channel surface and the cross section.

  In some embodiments, in order to stop the lateral end face of the device, the positioning arrangement comprises a rim base that is generally disposed within the cross section, thereby defining the cross section. In some embodiments, the flow guide comprises a rim extending laterally from each side wall of the edge. Each rim defines a generally longitudinally extending rim guide surface, is convex in a plane parallel to the cross-section, and the fluid from the flow path when fluid flows across the lateral end face of the device. The flow is diverged in a plane parallel to the cross section.

  In some embodiments, the positioning configuration comprises a rim base that is generally disposed within the first plane and configured to lean against the device surface, wherein the rim guide surface extends in a third direction from the surface of the device. .

  In some embodiments, the inner channel surface has a crest above the cross section, and the projection of the top onto the cross section is due to the intersection of the inner channel surface and the cross section rather than to the edge. Close to the line being defined. In some embodiments, the longitudinal portion of the inner channel surface extends partially along the space.

  In some embodiments, the end of the inner channel surface is positioned to form a surface that is substantially continuous with the lateral end surface of the device.

  In some embodiments, the inner channel surface extends through the cross section and the end of the inner channel surface meets the inner surface at the edge and is disposed at a first acute angle with respect to the cross section. The end of the outer flow path surface is disposed at a second acute angle with respect to the cross section and changes the direction of the fluid flow toward the cross section.

  In some embodiments, the second acute angle is different from the first acute angle, and preferably the second acute angle is greater than the first acute angle. In some embodiments, the average of the first and second acute angles is about 20 °. In some embodiments, the first acute angle is about 15 ° and the second acute angle is about 26 °.

  In some embodiments, the flow path comprises a cavity between the portion of the flow path adjacent to the edge and the length of the flow path extending longitudinally along the space. The cavity is shaped to redirect the fluid flow from a longitudinal flow along the length of the flow path to a generally lateral flow through the portion of the flow path adjacent the edge. In some embodiments, the cavity is shaped to bend the flow by an angle of about 110 °. In other embodiments, the cavity is shaped to bend the flow by an angle of about 124 °. In some embodiments, the cavity has a cross-sectional flow area that is greater than the portion of the flow path adjacent to the edge. In some embodiments, the cavity has a cross-sectional flow area that is greater than the length of the flow path adjacent to the cavity.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide has an inlet at the end of the flow guide that is longitudinally spaced from the edge. The inlet has a larger cross-sectional channel area than the channel adjacent to the edge. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional flow area of the inlet is greater than the cross-sectional flow area of the outlet defined between the end of the outer flow surface and the cross section. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional flow area of the inlet is about 6 times greater than the cross-sectional flow area of the outlet. In some embodiments, the multiple is about 15. In some embodiments, the multiple is at least 6, at least 10, or at least 15. In some embodiments, the flow path is continuous and has no obstruction to the fluid flow therein.

  In some embodiments, the cross-sectional channel area of the channel decreases from the inlet to the cavity inlet.

  In some embodiments, the end face flow area of the flow path increases after the entrance.

  In some embodiments, when the lateral end surface of the device is generally disposed within the cross-section, the inner flow path surface and the fluid flow are attached to and flow across the lateral end surface of the device. The outer channel surface changes the direction of the fluid flow.

  In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inner channel surface, edge, and inner surface is defined by the second portion. In some embodiments, the positioning configuration is defined by the first portion. In some embodiments, the second portion extends partially along the space.

  In some embodiments, the edge of the outer flow path surface is symmetric with respect to a third plane orthogonal to the first plane and the second plane. In some embodiments, the edge of the outer channel surface is curved.

  In some embodiments, each rim guide surface is generally curved in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction.

  In some embodiments, the edge of the outer channel surface is convex in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide is configured to redirect the fluid flow at an angle of about 20 ° relative to the first plane.

  In some embodiments, the channel has an inner channel surface that extends in a first direction between the sidewalls of the channel and generally faces the outer channel surface. In some embodiments, the inner channel surface is shaped to form a surface that is substantially continuous with the device surface when the device is secured to the flow guide. In some embodiments, when the device is positioned such that the surface is disposed in the first plane, the device defines an inner channel surface opposite the outer channel surface.

  In some embodiments, the device is substantially cylindrical, the surface is the end face of the device, defines a portion of the flow path longitudinally along the device, and is longitudinally fluid along the device A flow guide is configured to direct the flow.

  In some embodiments, the longitudinal portion of the flow guide comprises an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner and outer surfaces are connected to form two tips, so that the device is only partially surrounded by the longitudinal portion. In some embodiments, a distal tip surface is defined between the inner surface and the outer surface adjacent to each tip. The distal tip surface is located in a plane that is parallel but not coplanar with the first plane so that when the surface of the device is disposed in the first plane, the surface of the device is distal tip surface Projecting in the longitudinal direction beyond.

  In another aspect of the present invention, a lateral end face having a lens or optical window and a flow guide as described above is provided for directing fluid flow longitudinally along the device and across the lateral end face of the device. An optical device is provided that redirects the flow. The flow guide may be formed integrally with the optical device or separable from the optical device.

  In some embodiments, the device is substantially cylindrical and the surface is the end face of the device. In some embodiments, the device is an optical device and the surface is a lens or optical window of the device. In some embodiments, the device is a medical instrument, endoscope or laparoscope.

  Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

It is an upper perspective view of the flow guide attached to the full length of a laparoscope (endoscope) which illustrates the end surface (optical element) of a laparoscope. It is a top view of the distal end surface of the laparoscope to which the flow guide is attached. FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the distal end of an embodiment of a flow guide attached to a laparoscope. It is a top view of the distal end surface of the laparoscope to which the flow guide of these embodiments is attached. It is the side view which looked at the distal end part of the flow guide of these embodiments from the plane of the distal end surface of a laparoscope. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the distal end of the flow guide of these embodiments and a portion of the laparoscope when the flow guide is attached to the laparoscope. FIG. 6 is a side view of the distal end of the flow guide of these embodiments, excluding the laparoscope, showing the insert located within the flow guide. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the distal end of the flow guide of another embodiment and a portion of the laparoscope when the flow guide is attached to the laparoscope. It is the side view which looked at the distal end part of the flow guide of these embodiments from the plane of the distal end surface of a laparoscope. FIG. 6 is a side view of the distal end of the flow guides of these embodiments without a laparoscope. FIG. 6 is a top view of the distal end face of a laparoscope with an alternative embodiment of a flow guide attached. FIG. 10 is a side view of the distal end of another alternative embodiment of the flow guide as seen from the plane of the distal end face of the laparoscope.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a flow guide 2 is attached to a laparoscope 6 that is generally cylindrical or rod-shaped. The flow guide 2 is for guiding the fluid flow longitudinally along the laparoscope 6 and redirecting the fluid flow across the substantially flat distal end face 4 of the laparoscope 6. The flow guide 2 is configured such that a laminar flow of fluid flows across the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6. The flow guide 2 has a longitudinal portion 3 for guiding a fluid flow in the longitudinal direction along the shaft of the laparoscope 6 and a distal end for cleaning the end surface 4 by changing the direction of the fluid flow so as to cross the end surface 4. A portion 1 and an inlet 5 on the opposite side are provided. The end face 4 (shown in more detail in FIG. 2) is arranged in a cross section as a whole (ie, a plane fixed to the flow guide 2 orthogonal to the longitudinal direction) and is surrounded by an optical fiber bundle 4b that functions as a light source. A lens 4a, an optical window, or other surface of the laparoscope 6.

  The flow guide 2 includes a flow path 8 (see FIG. 6) through which a fluid can flow. The channel 8 has an outlet 10 through which the fluid flows out of the channel 8 at the distal end 1 of the flow guide 2. In use, the flow guide 2 is placed at a fixed position with respect to the laparoscope 6. The flow guide 2 can be attached to the laparoscope 6 so that the fluid flow leaving the flow path 8 through the discharge port 10 is directed in a direction across the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6.

  The channel 8 comprises two side walls 12 (see FIG. 5), which are spaced apart from each other in a first direction parallel to the end face 4. The two side walls 12 face each other on opposite sides of the channel 8 and are connected by an outer channel surface 14 (see FIG. 6) that defines the outer surface of the channel 8 (ie, the surface farthest from the laparoscope 6). Has been. At the distal end 1, the outer flow path surface 14 generally faces in the direction of the end face 4 and extends substantially in the first direction between the two side walls 12 and defines an outer edge 16 that defines the outer limit of the outlet 10. Is stipulated. In some embodiments, the inner flow path surface 35 (described in detail below) defines the inner limit of the outlet 10. In some embodiments, the inner limit of the outlet 10 is jointly defined by the inner channel surface 35 and the end face 4 itself, but in other embodiments, only one of these is the inner limit of the outlet 10. Is specified. In the portion proximate to the outer edge 16, the outer flow path surface 14 is substantially straight in a direction parallel to the intended direction of fluid flow. This serves to prevent the fluid flow from concentrating on a single point after the fluid flow has passed through the outlet 10.

  An inlet 5 is formed in the flow guide 2 on the opposite side of the flow guide 2 from the distal end 1. The injection port 5 allows fluid to enter a part of the flow path 8 in the longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2, flows along the laparoscope 6 to a cavity 42 (described later), and then the distal end of the flow guide 2. It flows in a part of the flow path 8 in the part 1 and flows out through the discharge port 10. In the portion of the flow path 8 along the laparoscope 6, the laminar flow is reconstructed when the fluid moves along the laparoscope 6 after passing through the inlet 5.

The cross-sectional flow area of the inlet 5 is larger than the cross-sectional flow area of the discharge port 10. (Throughout this specification, the term “cross-sectional flow area” refers to the cross-sectional area in a plane perpendicular to the intended direction of fluid flow.) The difference between these two cross-sectional flow areas is 6 times. However, in some embodiments the magnification is different. The cross-sectional flow area of the inlet 5 is approximately 14.2 mm ² , and the cross-sectional flow area of the discharge port 10 is approximately 2.4 mm ² . Due to this difference in cross-sectional flow path area, the overall velocity of the fluid flow flowing out from the outlet 10 is greater than the velocity of the fluid flow entering the inlet 5. This increase in exit velocity helps to ensure that the fluid flow adheres to the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6 and is fast enough to remove any unwanted particles on the end face 4.

In some embodiments, the inlet 5 opposite the distal end 1 of the flow guide 2 is positioned at an angle of about 15 ° with respect to the normal of the longitudinal axis of the laparoscope 6. The The entering fluid bends at an angle of about 75 ° as the fluid enters the channel 8 from the inlet 5 and flows toward the distal end of the channel 8. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional flow area of the inlet 5 is approximately 25 mm ^2, and more particularly is 25.32mm ^2. The cross-sectional flow area of the inlet 5 is larger than that of the outlet 10. The difference between these two cross-sectional channel areas is about 15 times.

  The inlet 5 is connected to a fluid supply source (not shown). In some embodiments, the fluid received from the fluid source is a gas such as carbon dioxide. The end face 4 is cleaned by removing any unwanted particles from the end face 4 using a gas flow operated and controlled by the flow guide 2. Unnecessary particles include biological material or foreign matter that adheres to the lens surface during surgery.

  In some embodiments, the fluid received from the fluid supply is a liquid and a jet of liquid is discharged across the end face 4 through the outlet 10. In some embodiments, this jet of liquid is used to clean the end face 4 in the same manner as described above.

  Referring to FIG. 2, which is a more detailed view of the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6, three main parts of the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6 can be seen. The lens 4a or the optical window is located at the center. The lens 4a is surrounded by the optical fiber bundle 4b. By using the optical fiber bundle 4b, light is emitted from the end face 4, and the laparoscope 6 can be used in an environment without light. The optical fiber bundle 4 b is surrounded by an outer cover 4 c that extends in the longitudinal direction along the outer wall of the laparoscope 6 and protects internal components of the laparoscope 6. A part of the outer surface of the outer cover 4 c is in contact with the inner surface 24 of the flow guide 2. In order to clarify the expression, details of the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6 are omitted in the subsequent drawings.

  In some embodiments, the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 extends in the longitudinal direction to the lens 4a of the laparoscope 6 or partially beyond the lens 4a. By bringing the outlet 10 and the lens 4a close to each other, the fluid can flow at a high speed on the lens 4a, and the velocity of the fluid before reaching the lens 4a can occur when the outlet 10 is away from the lens 4a. A significant percentage of that is not lost.

  The longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2 extends from the distal end 1 of the flow guide 2 along the shaft of the laparoscope 6 to its proximal end in a direction generally perpendicular to the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6. The longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2 includes an inner surface 24 and an outer surface 26. The inner surface 24 defines a space for receiving the laparoscope 6 and is shaped so as to surround at least a portion of the laparoscope 6 and attach the flow guide 2 to the laparoscope 6. In some embodiments, when the flow guide 2 is attached to the laparoscope 6, the outer surface 26 forms a substantially arc in a plane parallel to the cross section. The outer surface 26 and the inner surface 24 extend longitudinally along the axis of the laparoscope 6. Inner surface 24 and outer surface 26 are connected to form two tips 28. One tip 28 is at each end of the arc defined by the outer surface 26, so that the laparoscope 6 is only partially surrounded by the longitudinal portion 3. The inner surface 24 encloses more than half of the circumference of the laparoscope 6 and prevents the laparoscope 6 from moving laterally with respect to the flow guide 2.

  With reference to FIG. 3, a distal tip surface 27 is defined between the inner surface 24 and the outer surface 26 adjacent to each tip 28. The distal tip surface 27 lies in a plane that is parallel to the cross section but not coplanar with the cross section. Rather, the distal tip surface is located within the longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2 at a relatively small distance from the cross section. In some embodiments, this distance is about 0.5 mm. When the laparoscope 6 is inserted into the flow guide 2, the end surface 4 of the laparoscope 6 protrudes in the longitudinal direction beyond the distal tip surface 27. The implication of the distal tip surface 27 being in this position is to move the edge of the end face 4 away from any obstacles so that particles on the end face 4 can be removed from the end face 4 by fluid flow. Except for the portion joining the distal tip surface 27, the remaining portion of the outer surface 26 extends longitudinally through the cross section.

  In some embodiments, the tip 28 is substantially rigid and the laparoscope 6 is slid longitudinally into the space that receives the laparoscope 6 in order to place the laparoscope in the flow guide 2. In other embodiments, the tip 28 is flexible so that a laparoscope 6 can be inserted between the tips to exert a force on the laparoscope 6 to secure the laparoscope 6 relative to the flow guide 2. In addition, the distance between the tips 28 can be determined. In other embodiments, the tip 28 is flexible and can exert a force on the laparoscope 6 to secure the laparoscope 6 relative to the flow guide 2, but the laparoscope 6 is a space that receives the laparoscope 6. It is inserted by sliding it longitudinally.

  In some embodiments, when the laparoscope 6 is in the flow guide 2, the flow guide 2 holds the laparoscope 6 in place by the elastic force on the laparoscope 6. When the laparoscope 6 is in the flow guide 2, the tip 28 is bent inward so that the tip 28 can grasp the laparoscope 6. In another embodiment, the elastic force is applied without bending the tip 28 inward.

  The flow guide 2 also includes two rims (projections) 18. Each rim 18 generally extends from each of the side walls 12 of the flow path 8 in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The second direction is generally parallel to the direction of the fluid flow across the end face 4 as the fluid flow flows through the outlet 10. Each rim 18 includes a rim guide surface 20, and the rim guide surface 20 extends generally in a third direction perpendicular to the end surface 4 and perpendicular to the first and second directions. In the discharge port 10, a smooth transition is made between each side wall 12 of the flow path 8 and each rim guide surface 20. The rim guide surface 20 further extends in the third direction beyond the discharge port 10, and the range in the third direction is limited by the outer flow path surface 14. Each rim guide surface 20 also extends generally in the second direction away from the outlet 10. When each rim guide surface 20 extends away from the discharge port 10 in the second direction, the rim guide surface 20 also extends in the first direction away from the opposing rim guide surface 20. Therefore, the distance between the rim guide surfaces 20 along the imaginary line extending in the first direction increases as the imaginary line moves away from the discharge port 10 in the second direction. Therefore, the rim guide surface 20 diverges as it extends in the second direction. The angle of divergence of each rim guide surface 20 with respect to the second direction increases with the distance from the discharge port 10. In other words, the rim guide surface 20 is convex. In some embodiments, the rim guide surface 20 extends substantially in the second direction on the proximal side of the discharge port 10, while the rim guide surface 20 generally extends in the first direction on the distal side of the discharge port 10. Along. In some embodiments, the rim guide surface 20 is smoothly curved in a plane defined by the first and second directions. In some embodiments, the rim guide surface 20 is formed by a plurality of substantially flat surfaces that are arranged side by side to form a curved approximation of a smooth curved surface. Both types of surfaces can be described collectively as an overall curve.

  Each rim 18 includes a bottom 22 (see FIG. 5). The bottom 22 is shaped to lean against a part of the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6 and is arranged in a cross section. Since the bottom portion 22 leans against the end surface 4, it is guaranteed that the rim guide surface 20 comes into contact with the end surface 4 and extends from the end surface 4 in the third direction. The position of the bottom 22 also ensures that the outlet 10 is accurately positioned with respect to the end face 4 so that the end face 4 is generally arranged in the transverse plane. The bottom 22 also functions as a stop, preventing the laparoscope 6 from moving across the cross section in the third (longitudinal) direction relative to the flow guide 2.

  After curving away from the discharge port 10, each of the rim guide surfaces 20 merges with the outer surface 26. Each distal tip surface 27 extends from each tip 28 to a position that coincides longitudinally with the merging point of the rim guide surface 20 and the outer surface 26.

  In some embodiments, each rim guide surface 20 has a radius of curvature of about 2.5 mm in a plane parallel to the end surface 4 of the laparoscope 6.

  At the distal end 1 of the flow guide 2, the distal end surface 29 of the flow guide 2 extends from the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 in a direction away from the discharge port 10, and merges with the outer surface 26 of the flow guide 2. In the vicinity of the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14, the distal end surface 29 of the flow guide 2 extends away from the discharge port 10 and generally in the third direction (see FIG. 6). This helps to prevent the fluid flow from adhering to the distal end face 29 as it passes through the outlet 10. When the distal end surface 29 extends away from the outlet, it curves toward the outer surface 26 of the laparoscope 6. Proximal to the outer surface 26 of the flow guide 2, the distal end surface 29 of the flow guide 2 is substantially located in a plane defined by the first and second directions and is therefore perpendicular to the outer surface 26. When the rim guide surface 20 extends away from the end surface 4 of the laparoscope 6 in the third direction, the rim guide surface 20 meets the distal end surface 29 of the flow guide 2. The distal end surface 29 of the flow guide 2 does not protrude beyond the rim guide surface 20 or the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 in a plane defined by the first and second directions. This ensures that the distal end face 29 of the flow guide 2 does not interfere with the uncovered portion of the end face 4.

  With reference to FIG. 4, which shows the distal end 1 of the flow guide 2 and the end face 4 of the laparoscope, the path of fluid flow across the end face 4 is indicated by five arrows. The first arrow 30 indicates the path of the fluid across the center of the end face 4. This portion of the fluid flow has a substantially straight path in the second direction. The second arrow 31 and the third arrow 32 illustrate the fluid flow adjacent to each rim guide surface 20. The fluid flow adjacent to each rim guide surface 20 has a tendency to adhere to the rim guide surface 20, which is considered to be due to the Coanda effect. Thus, the fluid flow proximate to the rim guide surface 20 has a velocity that is characterized by the respective rim guide surface 20 (ie, the fluid flow follows a generally curved path). This allows the rim guide surface to flow substantially across the entire end surface 4 except for the portion of the end surface 4 behind the rim guide surface 20, ie, the portion in contact with the bottom 22 of the rim 18. The fluid flow adjacent to 20 diverges in the first direction. The fourth arrow 33 and the fifth arrow 34 indicate the fluid flowing at two intermediate positions between the center of the discharge port 10 and the rim guide surface 20. The fluid paths at these positions are also affected by the rim guide surface 20, and the fluid path curves away from the arrow 30, but to a lesser extent than the fluid paths indicated by arrows 31 and 32.

  The rim guide surface 20 serves to diffuse the fluid sufficiently to cover substantially the entire exposed surface of the lens. Without the rim guide surface 20, the fluid flow cannot diverge sufficiently or quickly, and therefore the lens will not be properly protected and cleaned.

  Referring to FIG. 4 again, it can be seen that the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 is curved in a plane defined by the first and second directions and is convex in this plane. The center of the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 extends further in the second direction than the portion of the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 that merges with the side wall 12 of the flow path 8. The outer edge 16 is curved so that the fluid flow is orthogonal to the outer edge 16 as the fluid stream flows through the outlet 10. This ensures that the fluid flow passes through the outlet 10 without interruption and helps the fluid flow to begin to diverge.

  FIG. 5 shows the distal end 1 of the flow guide 2 as viewed from the point of view in the plane of the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6. It can be seen that the outlet 10 is defined by the two side walls 12 of the channel 8, the outer edge 16 of the outer channel surface 14, and the end surface 4 of the laparoscope 6. The outer edge 16 of the outer channel surface 14 is curved in a plane defined by the first and third directions, so that a gap between the outer edge 16 and the end surface 4 is adjacent to the side wall 12 of the channel 8. It is smaller at the center of the outer edge 16 than at the outer edge 16. Adjacent to the outer edge 16, the outer channel surface 14 itself is similarly curved. The convex shape of the outer edge 16 ensures that the fluid passing through the center of the outlet 10 flows faster than the portion of the outlet 10 adjacent to one of the side walls 12 of the flow path 8. The fluid flowing through the discharge port 10 and adjoining the side wall 12 of the flow path 8 at a specific speed or more does not adhere to the rim guide surface 20, and thus continues mainly in the path in the second direction, and passes through the end surface 4. There is no divergence across. By making the outer edge 16 convex in the plane defined by the first and third directions, the flow velocity is decreased in the vicinity of the flow velocity at the center while increasing the average velocity of the flow, so that the rim guide is increased. The adhesion of the fluid to the surface 20 can be ensured. The velocity profile (cross section) created by the outlet 10 not only helps the flow adhere to the rim guide surface 20, but also diverges the flow by itself. Since the fluid flow in the center of the outlet 10 (along the first arrow 30 in FIG. 4) needs to travel a longer distance across the end face 4, increasing the speed will spread across the end face 4. It helps to keep the fluid flow attached to the end face 4. The velocity profile provided by the convex shape of the outer edge 16 diverges the flow (even in embodiments that do not have the rim 18 that defines the rim guide surface 20) by friction between fluid portions moving at different speeds. Useful.

  In some embodiments, the width of the outlet 10 in the first direction is about 5.5 mm. The height in the third direction at the center of the discharge port 10 is about 0.3 mm, and the height in the third direction adjacent to each side wall 12 of the flow path 8 is about 0.7 mm. The outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 forms an arc having a radius of about 9.5 mm.

In some embodiments, the cross-sectional flow area of the outlet 10 is approximately 1.7 mm ^2, more particularly a 1.68 mm ^2. The width of the discharge port 10 in the first direction is about 7 mm. The height in the third direction at the center of the discharge port 10 is about 0.2 mm (more specifically, 0.17 mm), and the height in the third direction adjacent to each side wall 12 of the flow path 8 is about 0.1 mm. 4 mm (more specifically 0.39 mm). The outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 forms an arc having a radius of about 28 mm, more specifically 27.51 mm.

  At the distal end 1 of the flow guide 2, a flow path 8 is configured to promote attachment of the fluid flow to the end surface 4 as the fluid flow flows through the outlet 10. The adhesion of the fluid stream to the end face 4 ensures that the fluid stream removes unwanted particles from the lens surface. Any portion of the fluid flow that does not adhere to the end face 4 flows away from the end face 4 and is hardly useful for cleaning the end face 4.

  FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of a part of the distal end 1 of the flow guide 2, a part of the longitudinal part 3, and a part of the laparoscope 6, and FIG. 1 is a side view of a part of 1 and a longitudinal part 3. FIG. With reference to these figures, according to some embodiments, an insert 37 is disposed on the inner surface of the flow guide 2. The insert 37 is manufactured separately from the remaining part of the flow guide 2 (that is, the main part of the flow guide 2). In some embodiments, the insert 37 and the main part are molded separately.

  In some embodiments, the insert 37 defines the side wall 12 of the flow path 8 in the region of the longitudinal portion of the flow guide 2 where the insert 37 is disposed. In other embodiments, the channel sidewalls 12 in this region are defined by the main portion of the flow guide 2.

  The insert 37 is configured to be disposed at a position in the main portion of the flow guide 2, extends between the side walls 12 of the flow path 8, and defines an inner flow path surface 35. The inner flow path surface 35 is located on the opposite side of the outer flow path surface 14 and faces it, and extends partially from the distal end 1 along the longitudinal portion 3. The inner flow path surface 35 is configured to form a surface that is substantially continuous with the end surface 4 of the laparoscope 6. Therefore, the inner edge 36 of the inner flow path surface 35 adjacent to the surface of the laparoscope 6 is concave. The inner edge 36 is disposed substantially in the cross section. At the inner edge 36, the inner flow path surface 35 merges with the inner insert surface 38. The inner insert surface 38 is the surface of the insert 37 that is arranged to form a continuous surface with the inner surface 24 of the flow guide 2 when the insert is in its intended position. Thus, when the laparoscope 6 is placed at the intended position within the flow guide 2 (ie, the end face 4 is in cross section), the inner insert surface 38 contacts the laparoscope 6.

  In some embodiments, the portion of the inner channel surface 35 along the laparoscope 6 extends from the cavity 42 to the inlet 5. In other embodiments, the portion of the inner channel surface 35 along the laparoscope 6 extends from the cavity 42 to a position between the cavity 42 and the inlet 5 due to the insert 37 extending to this position. In the remainder of the flow path 8 along the laparoscope 6, the laparoscope 6 functions to define the equivalent of the inner flow path surface 35.

  In some embodiments, the insert 37 is molded separately and then assembled with the rest of the flow guide 2 by, for example, gluing, press fitting, ultrasonic or thermal bonding. This simplifies the molding of the remaining part of the guide. However, in some embodiments, the “insert” 33 and the remaining portion of the flow guide 2 are integrally molded as a single part in a single mold. That is, the flow guide 2 is molded as a single unit.

  In some embodiments, the insert 37 extends along substantially the entire longitudinal length of the flow guide 2, such as from the inlet to the outlet.

  Adjacent to the inner edge 36, the inner flow path surface 35 is disposed at a first angle with respect to the end surface 4. Adjacent to the outer edge 16, the outer flow path surface 14 is disposed at a second angle with respect to the end surface 4. The second angle is larger than the first angle. Thereby, when the fluid flows toward the discharge port 10, the cross-sectional flow area of the flow path 8 decreases before the fluid reaches the end face 4, and the speed of the fluid flow increases before adhering to the end face 4. To do. In some embodiments, the average of the first angle and the second angle is about 20 °. It has been found that fluid flows approaching the end face 4 at this angle are more likely to adhere to the end face 4 and continue to adhere to the end face 4 for longer periods. In some embodiments, the first angle is about 15 °, more specifically about 15.1 °, and the second angle is about 26 °, more specifically about 26.4 °.

  Both the inner channel surface 35 and the outer channel surface 14 extend through the cross section from the longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2 to the distal end 1 of the flow guide 2. Thus, the channel 8 extends through the cross section and then bends at an angle greater than 90 °, in some embodiments about 110 °, resulting in the channel turning toward the cross section. The inner flow path surface 35 extends in the third direction from the longitudinal portion 3 to the distal end portion 1 of the flow guide 2 and passes through the cross section. The inner channel surface curves smoothly at an angle greater than 90 ° (in some embodiments about 105 °, more specifically 105.1 °) until it is disposed at a first angle toward the cross-section. The remaining portion of the inner flow path surface 35 defines the end of the inner flow path surface 35 and is disposed at this angle until it reaches the inner edge 36. The portion of the inner flow path surface 35 that extends to the farthest portion in the third direction defines a crest. This top portion is closer to the portion of the inner flow path surface 35 along the longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2 than the inner edge 36 in the second direction. In other words, the projection of the top on the cross section is closer to the line defined by the intersection of the inner channel surface 35 and the cross section than to the inner edge 36. This shape of the inner flow path surface 35 promotes adhesion of the fluid flow to the inner flow path surface 35 when the fluid flow is bent by the Coanda effect. This helps the fluid flow bend smoothly and reduces the possibility of turbulence.

  Similarly, the outer flow path surface 14 extends in the third direction from the longitudinal portion 3 to the distal end portion 1 of the flow guide 2 and passes through the cross section. The outer channel surface curves smoothly at an angle greater than 90 ° (in some embodiments about 116 °, more specifically 116.4 °) until it is positioned at a second angle towards the cross-section. The remaining portion of the outer channel surface 14 defines the end of the outer channel surface 14 and maintains this angle until the outer edge 16 is reached. Thus, the channel 8 defines a cavity 42 between the cross section and the end of the channel 8 adjacent to the outlet 10.

  Referring to the longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2, the longitudinal portion of the flow path 8 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the laparoscope 6. The fluid flow moves in the third direction along the laparoscope 6 through the longitudinal portion of the flow path 8 and reaches the cavity 42. Within the cavity 42, as described above, the fluid flow is redirected approximately 124 ° as it flows through the flow path 8. As the fluid stream leaves the cavity 42, the fluid stream enters the end of the flow path 8. The cross-sectional flow area at the end of the flow path 8 decreases between the cavity 42 and the discharge port 10. Thereby, before the fluid passes through the discharge port 10, the flow velocity of the fluid increases again.

  The cross-sectional flow area of the portion of the flow path 8 along the laparoscope 6 decreases from the inlet 5 to the entrance to the cavity 42. This time, the inlet of the cavity 42 has a smaller cross-sectional flow area than the cavity 42 itself. This increases the speed of the fluid stream as it approaches the cavity 42 and decreases the speed as the fluid stream enters the cavity 42. This means that the fluid flow moves with reduced velocity as it bends in the cavity 42.

  Thus, between the inlet 5 and the outlet 10, the flow velocity increases up to the cavity 42, and the flow velocity decreases within the cavity 42, facilitating a smooth change in the flow direction, and subsequently the outlet 10. Again, the flow rate increases again to increase the exit speed. The smooth direction change facilitated by the velocity profile (cross section) of the flow through the flow guide 2 makes it easy to leave a choking point of the fluid flow at the outlet 10 and therefore the fluid at the outlet 10. Helps maintain the maximum velocity of the flow. By ensuring a high velocity at the outlet 10, the laparoscope 6 promotes improved fluid adhesion.

  The outlet 10 is at a point beyond which the fluid flow is restricted only by the rim guide surface 20 and the surface 4 of the laparoscope 6. The outer limit of the outlet 10 is defined by the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14. The inner limit of the outlet 10 is determined by the projection of the outer edge 16 in the third direction onto the end face 4 of the laparoscope 6. All parts of the outer edge 16 of the outer channel surface 14 extend beyond the inner channel surface 35 in the second direction so that the inner limit of the outlet 10 is completely defined by the end surface 4. However, in some embodiments, the central portion of the outer edge 16 of the outer channel surface extends beyond the inner channel surface 35, but the portion of the outer edge 16 of the outer channel surface 14 adjacent each side wall 12 of the channel 8 is The inner flow path surface 35 does not extend in the second direction. As a result, the inner limit of the discharge port 10 is determined in part by the projection of the outer edge 16 onto the end face 4 and partly by the projection of the outer edge 16 onto the inner flow path surface 35.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide 2 does not have the insert 37 or the inner flow path surface 35. The laparoscope 6 functions to define the equivalent of the inner flow path surface 35, and thus the laparoscope 6 functions to define one side of the flow path 8. These embodiments will be described with reference to FIGS. It will be appreciated that the features of the embodiments described above are equally applicable whether or not the insert 37 is present. In particular, with respect to features relating to the cavity 42, these apply to both types of embodiments where the outer surface of the laparoscope 6 replaces the inner flow surface 35 and functions as the inner flow surface 35.

  Referring to FIG. 8 corresponding to FIG. 6, a cavity 42 is defined at the end of the flow path 8 adjacent to the outlet 10. The outer flow path surface 14 is curved at this portion. The insert 37 does not exist, and the laparoscope 6 forms the inner flow path surface 35. Due to the absence of the insert 37, the longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2 between the outer surface 26 and the outer flow path surface 14 can be thickened without increasing the radius of the flow guide 2, and thus its strength. Will increase.

  Referring to FIG. 9 corresponding to FIG. 5, it can be seen that there is no insert 37 directly above and behind the laparoscope 6.

Referring to FIG. 10 corresponding to FIG. 7, the two side walls 12 of the flow path 8 are equidistant along the longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2, so that the cross-sectional flow area of the flow path 8 is along this portion. It is constant rather than changing. The two side walls 12 of the channel 8 are about 7 mm apart. Therefore, the cross section of the flow guide 2 itself is also constant along this portion. Cross-sectional flow area of the channel 8 is approximately 4.5 mm ^2, and more particularly is 4.53mm ^2. The outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 is curved similarly to the embodiment described with reference to FIG. However, in some embodiments, the two sidewalls 12 provide a cross-section that is arranged and varied as described above. In some embodiments, the cross-section of the flow path 8 along the longitudinal portion 3 changes as described above with respect to FIG. 7 despite the absence of the insert 37.

  Referring to FIG. 11, in some alternative embodiments, the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 is not curved in a plane defined by the first and second directions, so that the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 is The above-described embodiment is modified to be in a plane defined by the first and third directions. This helps to create a parallel fluid flow through the outlet 10 in the second direction so that the fluid flow does not begin to diverge until the fluid flow begins to adhere to the rim guide surface 20. The flow guide 2 is constructed in other ways according to any embodiment described herein.

  Referring to FIG. 12, in some further alternative embodiments, the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14 does not curve in the plane defined by the first and third directions, and as a result, the outer edge 16 of the outer flow path surface 14. The above embodiment is modified so that is in a plane defined by the first and second directions. As a result, the height of the discharge port 10 in the third direction does not change, so that it is ensured that all portions of the fluid flow have a constant speed through the discharge port 10. The flow guide 2 is constructed in other ways according to any embodiment described herein.

  It will be understood that the above description of specific embodiments of the present invention is intended to be illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Many modifications of the above-described embodiments, some of which are described below, are envisioned and intended to be covered by the appended claims.

  In some embodiments, the outer surface 26 and the inner surface 24 do not merge at the tip 28, and both extend completely around the device. Thus, the outer surface 26 and the inner surface 24 are substantially cylindrical and completely enclose the laparoscope. As described above, the flow guide 2 forms the flow path 8 completely or partially on all sides, or the laparoscope 6 provides one side completely or partially. Various embodiments of endoscopic fluid conduits are disclosed in UK patent application GB0911891.0, to which PCT application PCT / GB2010 / 001302 claims priority, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. The

  In some embodiments, the portion of the flow channel 8 along the laparoscope 6 and the portion of the flow channel 8 adjacent to the rim 18 are combined to form a continuous surface.

  In some embodiments, the flow guide 2 comprises Radel A, polyethersulfone, Radel R, polyphenylsulfone and related / modified polymers, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), Valox ™ resin based on polyphenylene, eg polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene butylene (ABS), polypropylene Made of any suitable known and approved medical plastic, such as polyimide, polyacrylate, etc. In some embodiments, the flow guide 2 can be made of a metal such as, for example, stainless steel (316L).

  In some embodiments, the flow guide 2 can be attached to the laparoscope 6. In other embodiments, the flow guide 2 is formed integrally with the laparoscope 6. In some embodiments, the laparoscope 6 is a flexible or semi-rigid endoscope, while in other embodiments the laparoscope 6 is rigid.

  In some embodiments, when the rim guide surface 20 extends from the side wall 12 of the flow path 8, the rim guide surfaces are initially united before diverging as described above.

  The flow guide 2 described above is symmetric with respect to the plane defined by the second and third directions passing through the center of the outlet 10, but this is not the case in other embodiments.

  In some embodiments, the fluid flow is continuous and creates a continuous barrier that protects the end face 4 from unwanted particles. In other embodiments, the fluid flow is a pulsed or intermittent flow, varying in speed or stepped. This is more effective for removing specific types of particles from the end face 4.

  In some embodiments, the first angle and the second angle are both the same, for example about 20 °. In other embodiments, the first angle is about 0 ° and the portion of the inner channel surface 35 adjacent to the rim 18 is substantially in cross section.

  As described above, the discharge port 10 is a single outlet. In other embodiments, the flow guide 2 includes a plurality of outlets.

  In the embodiment described above, in the longitudinal portion 3 of the flow guide 2, the flow path 8 defines a substantially straight path that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the laparoscope 6. However, in some embodiments, the flow path 8 defines any curved or inclined path (such as a helical path) along the laparoscope 6. The term “longitudinally along” is intended to refer to any path having a component in the longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, the flow path is configured to redirect the fluid flow into a curved or spiral path across the end face 4.

  Although a specific description has been given with respect to the flow guide 2 attached to the laparoscope 6, the surface of any other device, in particular an optical device, more particularly a medical or non-medical generally cylindrical device It will be understood that the flow guide 2 can be applied to any optical surface cleaning with any necessary modifications. Similarly for laparoscopes, some embodiments of the flow guide may be used with other devices, such as any other type of endoscope, scope, or camera, any device that has a surface that needs cleaning. Suitable for doing.

Claims (15)

A flow guide for redirecting fluid flow across the surface of the device,
The flow guide is
A positioning arrangement for positioning the device relative to the flow guide such that the surface is generally disposed in a first plane defined along a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to each other;
A flow path for guiding a fluid flow, the flow paths having sidewalls spaced from each other in the first direction and extending in a third direction orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction;
An outer channel surface extending between the side walls of the channel,
An edge of the outer flow path surface is convex in a second plane defined by the first direction and the third direction to define a discharge port having a non-uniform height with respect to the first plane. And a non-uniform velocity profile for the fluid restricted to flow between the edge of the outer flow path surface and the first plane.   The flow guide according to claim 1, wherein an edge of the outer flow path surface is symmetric with respect to a third plane orthogonal to the first plane and the second plane.   The flow guide according to claim 1, wherein an edge of the outer flow path surface is curved.   4. A flow according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the positioning arrangement comprises a rim base arranged generally within the first plane and leaning against the surface of the device. guide.   The flow guide includes a rim that extends generally in the second direction from each of the side walls, each rim defines a rim guide surface that extends generally in the third direction, and each rim includes the rim The fluid flow from the flow path is diverged in the first direction when the fluid flows across the surface of the device by forming a convex shape in a plane parallel to the first plane. 4. The flow guide according to any one of 3.   The positioning arrangement includes a rim base that is disposed generally within the first plane and is configured to lean against a surface of the device, the rim guide surface extending from the surface of the device in the third direction. The flow guide according to claim 5. The flow guide according to claim 5 or 6, wherein each of the rim guide surfaces is generally curved in the first plane defined by the first direction and the second direction. The device is substantially cylindrical, the surface is an end face of the device, defines a portion of the flow path longitudinally along the device, and longitudinally the fluid along the device; flow guide according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the flow guide is configured to direct the flow. The flow path comprises a cavity between a portion of the flow path along the device and a portion of the flow path adjacent to an edge of the outer flow path surface, the cavity from the flow along the device. 9. A flow guide according to claim 8 , wherein the flow guide is shaped to bend the fluid flow into a flow across an end face of the device. The flow guide includes an inlet that is in fluid communication with the channel, and the inlet has a larger cross-sectional channel area than a part of the channel adjacent to an edge of the outer channel surface. It claims 1 to flow guide according to any one of 9. The flow path is continuous, claims 1 to flow guide according to any one of 9, characterized in that no obstacle for the fluid flow therein. When said surface to position the device to be placed in the first plane, one of the claims 1 to 11 inner channel surface facing the outer channel surface is equal to or defined by the device The flow guide described in Crab. 13. A lateral end face having a lens or an optical window, and a flow guide according to any of claims 1 to 12 , for directing fluid flow longitudinally along the device and across the lateral end face of the device. An optical device that changes the direction of fluid flow,
An optical device wherein the flow guide is formed integrally with the optical device or separable from the optical device. The optical device according to claim 13 , wherein the optical device is an endoscope. The optical device according to claim 13 or 14 , wherein the optical device is a laparoscope.

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